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TORONTO, April 21, 2016 /CNW/ - On April 20, 2016, Koskie Minsky LLP in Toronto and Troniak Law in Winnipeg commenced a class action against the Attorney General of Canada on behalf of Aboriginal persons affected by the "Sixties Scoop" in Manitoba.

The term "Sixties Scoop" refers to the practice in Manitoba whereby Aboriginal children were taken ("scooped up") from their families for placing in foster homes or adoption with non-Aboriginal homes. As a result, it is alleged these "scooped" children lost their identity as Aboriginal persons and suffered mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and physically. The plaintiffs also claim they were deprived of their status and other Aboriginal-related benefits, which Canada unjustly retained. Aboriginal communities describe the Sixties Scoop as destructive to their culture.

The claim alleges that by virtue of the Sixties Scoop in Manitoba, Canada was negligent and breached fiduciary duties owed to the Aboriginal class members.

The lawsuit is brought on behalf of all "Indian, non-status Indian, and/or Métis" children who were scooped after September 2, 1966 and were placed in the care of non-Aboriginal foster or adoptive parents who did not raise the children in accordance with the Aboriginal person's customs, traditions, and practices.

It seeks $200 million in damages for breach of fiduciary duty and negligence and $50 million in punitive damages.

"For too long, this 'scooped' generation in Manitoba has gone without recourse for the failings perpetrated upon them by the loss of their families, identities, cultures, and rightful benefits and treatment", says Kirk Baert, co-lead counsel at Koskie Minsky LLP, "and this case finally provides a real opportunity to provide them with access to justice".

SOURCE Koskie Minsky LLP

For further information: For further information or if you are a class member: Website: https://kmlaw.ca/manitoba60sscoopclassaction, Toll-free: 1-844-819-8527, Email: manitoba60sscoopclassaction@kmlaw.ca; For media enquiries, please contact Scott Robinson, 416-595-2097